Community Services, Housing and Women
The Honourable Karen Struthers

Friday, November 18, 2011

Ingham green thumbs take out prizes

Ingham’s green-thumbed social housing tenants have been recognised in the Queensland Government’s Social Housing Garden Awards today.

Housing Minister Karen Struthers said the annual awards recognised tenants who took pride in their gardens and helped improve not only their homes but neighbourhoods and communities.

“These gardens, and the time, effort and care taken with them, are a great example of how social housing tenants contribute to their communities,” Ms Struthers said.

“This year’s winners were selected from 14 entries in the Ingham region. A total 1149 entries were received across Queensland.

“I congratulate all the tenants for taking part in the awards which have been running for the past 15 years.”

Ms Struthers said the Townsville Regional Tenants Group deserved special mention for their support in helping the government manage the awards.

“The group is a great supporter of social housing tenants, extending a hand in friendship and encouraging them to participate in community life,” Ms Struthers said.

“These awards have been a great success and have helped in contributing to building stronger, greener, healthier communities.”

In 2011–12, the Queensland Government will allocate more than $1 billion to social housing programs and infrastructure.

“This is the biggest investment in social housing this state has ever seen, and it’s great to see tenants taking care of these properties and pride in their homes and gardens,” Ms Struthers said.

The Ingham region has 79 government managed social housing tenancies. The Queensland Government investment in the region includes completed construction of 5 units of accommodation at a total approved construction budget of $1.238 million in 2010-11.